Chapter 26-27: Non-Avian Reptiles and Avian Reptiles

A set of flashcards covering key concepts from the lecture on non-avian and avian reptiles, focusing on their origins, adaptations, and classifications.

What defines an Amniote?

A vertebrate that includes reptiles, birds, and mammals, characterized by a set of extra-embryonic membranes that support the developing embryo.

What are the three skull types in Amniotes?

Synapsid, Diapsid, and Anapsid.

What is the significance of the Amniotic egg?

It allows development without the need for water, is shelled, and requires internal fertilization.

What is a Diapsid skull?

A skull with two openings, characteristic of reptiles, birds, and dinosaurs.

What do synapsid skulls entail?

They have an undivided arch and are found in mammals and their ancestors.

What are Lepidosaurs?

A clade of squamates that includes snakes and monitors, characterized by a kinetic skull and hemipenes in males.

What is Jacobson's Organ?

A sensory organ in a snake's mouth that helps it 'smell' or 'taste' its environment.

What adaptation do birds have that relates them to Theropod dinosaurs?

Birds have asymmetrical feathers and adaptations for flight.

What are Saurischia and Ornithischia?

The two main clades of dinosaurs, with Saurischia including theropods and ornithischia comprising of bird-hipped dinosaurs.

What is a significant niche role of Theropods?

They evolved from carnivorous ancestors to omnivores and herbivores, specializing in various diets.

What are some adaptations found in birds?

Endothermy, feathers, flight adaptations, and a rigid backbone.

What do the synamorphies of Sauropodomorpha indicate?

They include primitive archosaur anatomy, long necks, small heads, and massive bodies adapted for herbivory.